Leaders want MPs barred from ODM party elections

ODM supporters

Differences have emerged in the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) over MPs' participation in grassroots elections slated for the end of this month.

Migori Parliamentary Group Chairman Omondi Anyanga urged elected leaders not to seek ODM elective positions and instead support party programmes to strengthen it ahead of 2017 polls.

Mr Anyanga argued the MPs will not have enough time to mobilise party followers at the grassroots since they will be attending Parliament sessions and committee meetings.

Anyanga, who is also the Nyatike MP, said the National Elections Board, which will be charged with holding the elections, should support legislators in drumming up support for acquisition of identity cards and voter registration, especially by the youth.

He also warned party supporters to be vigilant and lock out moles from other party.

"We expect that this being an internal affair, we will not have detractors," said Anyanga.

Anyanga's sentiments were echoed by Kisumu East MP Shakeel Shabbir, who said elected leaders should not contest for party seats.

But ODM Political Affairs Secretary Opiyo Wandayi said the party constitution does not bar MPs and other elected leaders from holding party positions.

"In any case, MPs and other elected leaders would bring valuable experience and value to the party leadership if they get elected in a fair and transparent process," said Wandayi, who is also the Ugunja MP.

The Orange party has planned grassroots elections in Kilifi, Nairobi, Vihiga, Kajiado, Marsabit, Wajir and Migori counties.

The elections will be staggered at ward, constituency and county levels from July 31 to August 3 before national elections of the party.

ODM Executive Director Oduor Ong'wen said the party will use the existing membership register to conduct its grassroots elections, adding that it is only the delegates' list that was in contention.